Rhode Island White
Gallus gallus domesticus
✨ Fait Amusant
The Rhode Island White is genetically distinct from the Rhode Island Red despite sharing a state name — they were developed by different people from completely different breed crosses and carry different comb types. When White Rhode Island White hens are crossed with Rhode Island Red cocks, the offspring can be auto-sexed at hatch because pullets are red and cockerels are white — a practical tool used in commercial hybrid production. This cross, called the Golden Comet or Rhode Island cross, is one of the most widely used commercial hybrid layers in the world.
A distinct breed from the far more famous Rhode Island Red, the Rhode Island White was developed in 1888 by J. Alonzo Jocoy of Peacedale, Rhode Island, by crossing Partridge Cochins, White Wyandottes, and Rose Comb White Leghorns. Unlike the Rhode Island Red, the Rhode Island White carries a rose comb and is entirely white. It was admitted to the APA Standard of Perfection in 1922. The Rhode Island White is productive, calm, and capable in both egg production and meat quality, but has remained in the shadow of its red counterpart and is now considered a rare breed by the Livestock Conservancy.
🏷️ Race
Rhode Island White
💭 Tempérament
Calm, docile, productive, easy to manage
📏 Taille
Large (2.7-3.6 kg)
⏳ Espérance de vie
5-8 years
🎨 Couleurs
Pure white throughout; rose comb; yellow skin and legs
🌍 Origine
USA — Peacedale, Rhode Island; J. Alonzo Jocoy, 1888; APA Standard 1922
🏠 Habitat
Free-range or enclosed run; cold-hardy
🍽️ Alimentation
Layer pellets; good forager
🎯 Usage
Dual Purpose
🥚 Couleur des œufs
Brown
👑 Type de crête
Rose